Peter Benchley, author portrait
© Scott Stallard

Peter Benchley

Peter Benchley began his career as a novelist in 1974 with the publication of Jaws, which was made into a hugely successful film. His other books include The Deep, The Island, The Girl of the Sea of Cortez, “Q” Clearance, Rummies, Beast, White Shark, and Shark Trouble. He was also a speechwriter for President Lyndon Johnson and a journalist for such magazines as Newsweek and National Geographic. Benchley died in 2006.
Jaws
Shark Life

Books

Jaws
Shark Life

Jaws Summer Reading Spotlight: Read the Book, Watch the Documentary

This summer, students can dive into the story that sparked a cultural phenomenon. Peter Benchley’s Jaws—a bestseller and the inspiration behind the legendary 1975 film that turned a simple shark tale into a defining piece of pop culture—was re-released last June in a special 50th Anniversary edition. This commemorative edition is more than just a

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